Sodium Hypochlorite 10-12% (Jik)
Sodium Hypochlorite 10-12% (commonly known as Jik) is a clear to pale greenish-yellow liquid with a strong chlorine odor. It is a widely used disinfectant and bleaching agent, known for its powerful oxidizing properties. This grade is commonly employed in household cleaning, water treatment, and industrial sanitation processes. It is effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, making it a popular choice for disinfection and sterilization.
Uses
Primary UsesÂ
- Household Cleaning and Disinfection
- Used as a bleach for whitening clothes and removing stains in laundry.
- Acts as a disinfectant to sanitize kitchens, bathrooms, and surfaces.
- Eliminates mold, mildew, and bacteria on household surfaces.
- Water Treatment
- Employed to disinfect drinking water by killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
- Used in swimming pools to control algae growth and maintain hygienic water quality.
- Healthcare and Sanitation
- Used for surface disinfection in hospitals, clinics, and laboratories.
- Applied in sterilizing medical instruments and equipment.
- Industrial Applications
- Used in food processing plants to sanitize equipment and surfaces.
- Applied in paper and textile industries for bleaching and disinfection.
- Wastewater Treatment
- Used to treat sewage and industrial effluents to reduce microbial contamination.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Odor Control
- Used to neutralize unpleasant odors in waste management and sanitation facilities.
- Agriculture
- Used to disinfect irrigation water and agricultural equipment.
- Aquaculture
Applied to control pathogens and maintain water quality in fish farms.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium hypochlorite
- Common/Trade Name: Sodium Hypochlorite 10-12% (Jik)
- CAS Number: 7681-52-9
- HS Code: 2828.10
- Synonyms: Liquid bleach, Hypochlorite solution
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid
- Color & Odor: Pale greenish-yellow, strong chlorine smell
- Concentration: 10-12% available chlorine
- pH: Alkaline (~11-13)
- Density: Approx. 1.1 g/cm³
- Solubility: Completely soluble in water
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Corrosive to skin and eyes; oxidizing liquid
- Toxicity: Harmful if swallowed or inhaled; releases toxic chlorine gas on reaction with acids
- Exposure Limits: Use adequate ventilation and protective equipment
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from sunlight and incompatible materials such as acids and organic compounds
- Container Type: Supplied in corrosion-resistant plastic drums or bottles
- Shelf Life: Typically 6 months to 1 year depending on storage conditions
- Handling Precautions: Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and inhalation of vapors; handle with care to prevent spills and reactions
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly sealed and stored in a dry environment
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with WHO and EPA guidelines for disinfectants
- Registered and approved for use in drinking water disinfection and household sanitation in many countries
- Meets local and international chemical safety regulations (e.g., OSHA, REACH)
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Breaks down to harmless substances like salt and oxygen over time
- Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic life in high concentrations; avoid direct release into waterways
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, and respiratory protection if ventilation is inadequate
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid mixing with acids or ammonia-containing products
- Storage Measures: Keep away from heat, sunlight, and incompatible materials; store securely to prevent leaks
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms such as coughing or breathing difficulty occur
- Skin Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; remove contaminated clothing
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek urgent medical care
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek immediate medical help
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable but can release toxic chlorine gas when heated or in contact with acids
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers for surrounding fires
- Special Precautions: Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Chlorine, sodium oxides